LAFAYETTE, La. (AP) — In a dramatic kickoff to the new college football season, Rice University claimed a tense 14 12 victory over the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns. The game, held Saturday night at the inaugural game in Our Lady of Lourdes Stadium, featured powerful ground attacks, stout defensive stands and storybook moments for the Owls and their new head coach.
Quinton Jackson Powers Rice to Win
Quinton Jackson was a dominant force on the field. He rushed for 119 yards and scored a crucial touchdown, while teammate Daelen Alexander chipped in an additional 74 rushing yards, giving the Owls control on the ground (22 Jackson carries). The win marked coach Scott Abell’s first victory at the helm and Rice’s first season opener win since 2018.
Rice controlled the time of possession, owning the ball for more than 36 minutes compared to Louisiana’s 23 minutes. The Owls’ methodical offensive execution reflected their run-heavy “Gun-Choice” option offense, a scheme created by Abell and detailed in preseason reports.
Explosive Second Quarter Sets the Tone
After Louisiana opened the scoring with a 47-yard field goal by Tony Sterner in the first quarter, Rice responded in the second quarter with a 13-play, 72-yard drive, capped by Jackson’s one-yard plunge. The Owls extended their lead when Aaron Turner scored his first career rushing touchdown on a 17-yard end-around, putting Rice ahead 14 3 at halftime.
Louisiana Fights Back, Falls Just Short
The Ragin’ Cajuns rallied in the third quarter as former LSU quarterback Walker Howard executed a 98-yard scoring drive with a 25-yard rushing touchdown. The two-point attempt failed, keeping the deficit to 14 12.
Late in the fourth quarter, Louisiana had a chance to take the lead, but Howard was stopped short on a critical fourth down play from the two-yard line. A final attempt on fourth and ten also failed, as Rice’s defense held strong to seal the win.
Statistics That Tell the Story
Rice finished with 251 total yards, while Louisiana managed 239. Rice rushed for 202 yards compared to Louisiana’s 151. Quarterback Chase Jenkins completed 7 of 9 passes for 45 yards, while Howard passed for 88 yards, rushed for 47, and threw one interception.
Emotional Debut for Coach Abell
For Scott Abell, the win was not just his first as Rice’s head coach but a symbolic breakthrough. “It’s one of the best road wins I can remember in my career,” he said. “You’re talking 32 years, most of those as a head coach. There’s only a couple that match it”.
A Snapshot of Strategy and Resilience
Rice’s efficient rushing and clock-management neutralized what was expected to be a high-scoring showdown. Meanwhile Louisiana, despite the loss, showed resilience. Their defense pressured the Owls and their special teams kicker delivered two long field goals, including a career-best 51-yard boot just before halftime.
What Comes Next
Louisiana (0-1) looks to rebound at home next Saturday in Hall of Fame/Alumni Weekend against McNeese State . Rice (1-0) takes the confidence of the upset into the rest of its schedule, with expectations growing around Abell’s offensive system.